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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is the main attitude that writers have today?
(a) To write well, regardless of whether it is fiction or nonfiction.
(b) To write modern literature and be the next best author.
(c) To write literature, the way it was defined before WWII.
(d) To be published in the New Yorker.

2. A musician must practice scales, and a writer must practice ______________.
(a) Grammar.
(b) Spelling.
(c) The marketplace.
(d) Sentences.

3. What is a natural inclination for writers when they start a piece?
(a) They assume the readers know what they are writing about.
(b) Writers assume readers know nothing about what they are writing about.
(c) They ramble through an unnecessary introduction.
(d) They don't give enough background information.

4. Why is it important to narrow down a nonfiction piece?
(a) It isn't that important. It just sells better to magazines to be focused.
(b) Articles should not drain the writer and reader. Focusing on a corner is better than redefining an entire room.
(c) It isn't important. People just want to look at pictures anyways.
(d) One person cannot write an article about every aspect of something. That is what books are for.

5. Good writing is ______________.
(a) Seen often.
(b) Very difficult.
(c) Easy to teach.
(d) Easy.

Short Answer Questions

1. What tense does Zissner recommend when starting a new piece?

2. When can ornamental writing be used as an exception?

3. What does it convey when anyone says he can write a book if he wanted to?

4. What is an example of a hit book that was rejected several times?

5. What attitude should writers embrace towards their editors?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why are writers fearful to insert their own opinions, ideas, and judgments in their own writing?

2. What skills does an interviewer need to possess?

3. Why are interviews so important to an article?

4. What do all good writers do when it comes to improving?

5. Why does Zinsser want writers to cut out ornamental writing?

6. Why are rhythm and sound important in writing? What should writers do to improve this aspect of their writing?

7. Why does Zinsser use brackets on students' papers?

8. What are some examples of bad writing that has to be read?

9. What political period was the worst as far as bad writing?

10. When can some writers break grammar rules?

(see the answer keys)

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